Adventures
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Visiting Helton Creek Falls in Georgia
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Helton Creek Falls was a spontaneous stop for me on my journey through northern Georgia, and I am so happy I found it. If you’re looking for a beautiful waterfall with very little hiking effort, Helton Creek Falls needs to be on your list. This spot delivers two stunning waterfalls…
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Summiting Blood Mountain: A Taste of the Appalachian Trail
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For as long as I can remember, I have loved the idea of hiking on the Appalachian Trail (AT). It is a hiker’s dream. The chance to explore what feels like endless miles of rugged singletrack through multiple states, deep within the wildest areas of the country. While a months-long…
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A Cozy Cabin Stay Vogel State Park in Georgia
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Every once in a while, I find a place that is truly special. A place where, shortly after I leave, I’m already daydreaming of my return trip. Vogel State Park in Georgia is one of those places.
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My Day of Adventure at Cumberland Falls State Park, Kentucky
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I’ve driven through and camped in Kentucky multiple times, but have never taken the time to stop and explore Cumberland Falls State Park. This time was different. This time, I intentionally stopped so I could discover the beauty of this Corbin, Kentucky gem.
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Returning to Trail Weekend 50K
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We often spend our miles chasing the “next big experience”. Whether that’s new trails, new races, or unfamiliar horizons. But every so often, there’s a race that comes along that feels less like a challenge to conquer and more like a tradition to keep. The Trail Weekend 50K is that…
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Exploring Crooked Lake Trail in Pinckney Recreation Area
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When the call for a challenging day on the trails comes, one destination in Southeast Michigan always answers. Pinckney Recreation Area. While many runners, backpackers, and hikers flock to its famous neighbor, the Potawatomi Trail, the Crooked Lake Trail offers a shorter but equally rewarding option.
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Michigan’s Gem: Exploring the North Country Trail in Yankee Springs
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I was looking for some new scenery for my long run. What I discovered wasn’t just a new trail, but an entirely new experience on the North Country Trail (NCT).
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A Bucket List Worthy Waterfall: Miners Falls
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When you think of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, you often think of the iconic painted cliffs. But the waterfalls are my favorite. Miner’s Falls is one Michigan waterfall that should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is beautiful, powerful, and accessible by a relatively short and shaded walk in the…
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From Banshee to Piglet: A Celebration of Delilah
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Nearly six months ago, I lost my beagle boy, Brisco, to cancer. Since then, I have been trying to learn how to live without him. At the same time, I had to learn how to navigate the relationship I had with my beagle girl, Delilah. Delilah had never been a…
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Chasing the Roar: A Rainy Day Adventure at Dead River Falls
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What is the best way to spend a rainy day? Chasing waterfalls, of course! You might expect a river with the name Dead River to be still or stagnant, but you’d be wrong. Located in Marquette, Michigan, this waterway is anything but dead.
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Why Presque Isle in Marquette, Michigan is a Must
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Presque Isle Park in Marquette, Michigan, is truly a diamond amongst gems. This 323-acre forested peninsula juts out into Lake Superior, offering a perfect blend of rugged wilderness and accessible, family-friendly adventure.
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A Walk Through History: Fayette Historic State Park
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Nestled on the scenic Garden Peninsula in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Fayette Historic State Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. This once-bustling industrial town is now a beautifully preserved outdoor museum.
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My Flirt with Dirt 5K & 10K Adventure
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I’m always searching for those unique races that offer not just a physical challenge but also a chance at an adventure. The Flirt with Dirt Trail race is one such event. Flirt with Dirt takes place on the beautiful trails of Maybury State Park in Wayne County, Michigan. Its 5K…
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A Tribute to My Best Friend
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Losing a “soul dog” is a unique kind of heartbreak. It is impossible to find the words that capture that profound connection. I can’t tell you how many times I have started and stopped this post over the past month. No matter what I write, the words feel hollow, unable…
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Hiking the Tranquil Penosha Trail in Brighton Recreation Area
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There is a special kind of magic in exploring a new trail, and the Penosha Trail in Brighton Recreation Area definitely delivers. If you’re like me and seek out those quieter corners of nature, this trail is a must-explore. Prepare for a peaceful wander through deep woods, sparkling lakes and…
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A Winter Expedition: Exploring Valhalla Park
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Winter hikes are one of my favorite things to do with my beagle, Brisco. We love exploring new trails, playing in the snow, and enjoying the fresh air. However, as he grows older sometimes the harder hikes through deep snow have been a bit more of a challenge for him.…
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Choose Your Michigan Outdoor Winter Adventure
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Winter in Michigan is a magical time of year. The landscape transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland. This bucket list will guide you on your journey of discovery, helping you embrace the cold and uncover the hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that make Michigan winters truly special.
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Hiking Sugarloaf Mountain in Marquette, Michigan: A Fall Adventure
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As the crisp air of autumn sweeps across Marquette, Michigan, there’s no better time to lace up the hiking boots and head to Sugarloaf Mountain. This local gem offers breathtaking views, vibrant foliage, and a sense of tranquility that’s perfect for anyone looking to connect with nature. There’s just something…
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Don’t Miss the Incredible Ash Cave in Hocking Hills
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You don’t want to miss Ash Cave in Hocking Hills State Park. Ash Cave isn’t like those we splunked through in Cumberland Caverns. It is a type of cave called a recess cave – and it is the largest one in the state of Ohio.
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Hiking to Cedar Falls in Hocking Hill State Park
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Cedar Falls is one of Hocking Hill State Park’s greatest waterfall by volume. However, don’t get your hopes up of seeing this waterfall roaring with life if you visit any time in the summer. Like the other waterfalls in this area, Cedar Falls is likely to dry up during the…
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The Rock House in Hocking Hills State Park
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Hocking Hills State Park is well known for its caves. But did you know that there is actually only one true cave within the park? That’s the Rock House. The Rock House cave is about 200 feet long and 20 to 30 feet wide with a high ceiling of 25…
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Top 5 Reasons Why Old Man’s Cave is Worth Exploring
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Old Man’s Cave is the most popular area in Hocking Hills State Park. There is so much to see along a short, easy hike that is unique and very beautiful.
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My First Adventure on the Big Bay Pathway
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When I first discovered the Big Bay Pathway, I was intrigued. I had difficulty finding any information about it other than a tiny image of a detail-less map and that it was used primarily for cross-country skiing. I visited what I had thought was the trailhead a few times but…
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Running on the North Country Trail: Pictured Rocks
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In 2016, we had the wonderful opportunity to backpack through the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Since then, it has been a dream of mine to run the length of the park. While this trip was short, it gave me a taste of that experience and made me even more determined…
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Over the Hills and Through the Creek: Running the Half at Winter Trail Fest – West Side
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In 2020, I set off on an adventure to complete my first winter trail run. It was 5 miles through Yankee Springs Recreational Area. It was cold, snowy, and a blast. I’m happy to say I have finally returned to the Winter Trail Fest – West (W.T.F) event and tackled…